Kudos to Illinois Seniors

A lot of senior citizens who should be retiring are desperately looking for jobs and new opportunities just to stay afloat in this tough economy.

But many seniors never got college educations or career training, which makes it even harder to find work in our job-limited state.

As part of its 5th annual Women’s Scholarship Program, the AARP Foundation has awarded scholarships to nine low-income women in Illinois.

The funds help older women seek new job skills, training and educational opportunities so they can support themselves and their families.

A total of $23,500 was awarded in increments of $500 to $5,000, depending on financial need and the cost of the education or training program. Nationally, 300 women received scholarships totaling more than $362,000.

“AARP Foundation is committed to elevating opportunities for women,” said Bob Gallo, State Director for AARP Illinois. “We are so proud of this program, which has helped hundreds of deserving women have access to educational opportunities that will advance their employment goals and ensure they’ll have the financial resources they need as they age.”

The Women’s Scholarship Program awards scholarships to eligible women each year. For more information, visit aarp.org/womensscholarship.

Speaking of fabulous Illinois seniors, the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is currently accepting nominations for the 2011 Illinois Senior Hall of Fame.

The awards are granted based on past and current accomplishments in one of four categories: Community Service, Education, Performance and or Graphic Arts and in connection to their employment, called the Labor Force.

Candidates must be at least 65 years old and current Illinois residents, or at least ones who lived in the state most of their lives.

Posthumous nominees will also be considered.

“The Senior Hall of Fame is a great way to highlight contributions made by older persons in the state,” said Michael Gelder, acting director of the Illinois Department on Aging. “We urge people to get their nominations in before the August 24 deadline.”